By Audrey Peeters and Heather Champine/Media Relations Inc.
To approach the media about legislative issues, specific elements should already be in place:
- Know Your History: Understand the legislation so that you can educate the media. Know the series of events that led to the legislation. Why does it need to be passed?
Who/what is causing the problem? Learn individual state laws so you can localize the issue. - Be the First To Know: Be attentive to legislative and FTC updates. Have in-depth knowledge of current FTC rulings and pending legislation. Know when it moves into the House of
Representatives and Senate. Have an approximation of when the bill will be passed. Know when the law will go into effect. - Have Multiple Press Releases: As the issue unfolds, present timely messages to the media to avoid making the story too complicated or overwhelming.
- Offer Credible Sources: By offering an industry expert to the media, you can educate consumers about their choices. Working with key players, such as a congressperson who
supports the legislation, also gives you the opportunity to offer an additional credible interview. - Present a Solution: Empower the consumer. Explain how the legislation will affect them. How can consumers exercise their rights? To further improve your effectiveness, provide
a call to action and specific steps on which the public can act immediately.